The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD) has held the second activation of Where Life Pulses initiative in Zakher District, Al Ain Region. The event welcomed more than 6,000 visitors and highlighted community spirit. By putting children and youth at the forefront of its community programming, it underscored the pivotal role communities assume in turning residential areas into hubs of positive engagement.
The event was attended by H.E Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, accompanied by H.E Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili the Secretary General of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, H.E Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development, H.E Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary General of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, and H.E Dr Mona Al Mansoori, Acting Director General of the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority, along with a number of officials from various entities and partners.
With a resounding turnout from residents across Zakher and neighboring areas, Zakher Park was reimagined as a dynamic launchpad for aspiring young entrepreneurs who took the lead in managing their stalls and projects, bolstered by the heartfelt support of their families, beautifully illustrating the spirit of togetherness. The visitor experience was further enriched by a curated blend of interactive challenges, live performances, and a variety of food and beverage offerings, complemented by creative workshops designed to inspire creativity and innovation.
A key highlight of the Zakher stop was a vibrant hive hosting over 12 creative workshops throughout the event, which engaged visitors in a diverse daily roster, spanning coffee painting, canvas art, bracelet making, clay modeling, origami, and tote bag painting. This landscape was further enriched by the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, which added a layer of cultural depth to the program. Featuring Arabic calligraphy, decoupage, and nature-inspired handicrafts, the program was anchored by the ‘Proud of the UAE’ initiative, which focused on fostering the community’s connection to its national identity, heritage, and authentic Emirati values.
Adding to the event’s charm, daily bubble shows captivated the audience at ‘Where Life Pulses’ stage, with face painting and balloon art creating a joyful backdrop for visitors. The initiative’s focus on community engagement through interactive games, such as Jenga, hopscotch, and labyrinth challenges ignited a spirit of friendly competition and family bonding. This blend of entertainment and play generated an uplifting atmosphere, transforming the area into a vibrant celebration of shared family moments throughout the three-day event.
Fatema Abdulrahman Al Hosani, Director of the Social Cohesion at the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, stated: “The enthusiasm and engagement observed in Zakher is a clear testament to how this initiative resonates with the community’s aspirations and reflects the desire of local communities for active participation. We are seeing a noticeable increase in family cohesion and a greater turnout of youth presenting their experiences and projects with confidence at every stop. This truly embodies our vision: turning districts into sustainable, interactive environments that empower their residents to see themselves as the true foundation of a vibrant and cohesive community.”
Al Hosani, added that engagement in Zakher demonstrated that communities naturally champion initiatives that speak to their heritage. She further stated: “Our partner brought a unique depth to the experience, successfully weaving the entrepreneurial ambitions and creative skills of our youth into the fabric of our national heritage and traditional crafts, ultimately nurturing a sense of belonging and reinforcing community bonds.” She also noted that: “The initiative underscores the value of bringing public spaces to life as places of connection and interaction, reflecting DCD’s commitment to empowering families and elevating quality of life across Abu Dhabi.”
Central to the Zakher stop’s success was a strategic partnership with key Abu Dhabi entities. While the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), via the Municipal Presence Centre, and Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) drove community and student engagement, the Department of Economic Development (DED) empowered young entrepreneurs through licensing, and the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority contributed by integrating social support beneficiaries into the entrepreneurs’ projects.The initiative was further sustained by funding from the Authority of Social Contribution - Ma’an, and the strategic sponsorship of the Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC), in addition to support from various other partners, It also hosted a platform for the Madeem initiative and the Emirati Family Growth Program.
Looking ahead, the journey of ‘Where Life Pulses’ continues into 2026, with plans to reach several residential districts in Abu Dhabi, where every stop will be thoughtfully tailored to the unique character and identity of its host district, ensuring the experience responds to the aspirations of the residents and delivers a truly distinct community celebration.
The Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi invites all families and youth in the Emirate to connect with its official channels to keep track of the latest updates and upcoming event dates and learn how they can take part in the activities planned for the districts in Abu Dhabi in the upcoming period.